Pietersen's mentor Ford named new Surrey coach... now he must focus on promotion

Sri Lanka coach Graham Ford has been handed the job of taking Surrey back to county cricket’s elite.

Ford, 52, who has also had spells in charge of Kent and South Africa, has been named the new Surrey head coach with former England captain Alec Stewart to take on the job of director of cricket full time.

A statement on the Surrey website said: 'Surrey CCC are pleased to announce the appointment of Graham Ford as its new head coach.'

'Ford, 52, will join the club in February and work alongside Alec Stewart – who will continue serving on the club board with the new title as director of cricket – and club captain Graeme Smith, who is due to return to Surrey ahead of the 2014 season.'

Surrey keeper Steve Davies tweeted: 'Really excited about working with Graham Ford at surrey. Heard some great things...'

And Kent's former England batsman Rob Key posted: 'Congratulations surrey. Graham ford is the best of the best #topgun'.

Speaking this week, Ford said: 'I am delighted to once again be involved in English cricketing system. I have, for a long while, been an admirer of Surrey CCC and see it as a great privilege to be actively involved in such a fine club. I look forward to the exciting times ahead!'

Stewart added: 'This is an outstanding appointment. Graham is someone who is well respected throughout the cricketing world and has a reputation of improving individual and team performances – I am looking forward to working with him.'

Ford is a close friend of Kevin Pietersen dating back to the days the Surrey batsman was growing up in South Africa.

Close: Kevin Pietersen was consulted about appointing his mentor, who needs to win promotion next season

Looking: Surrey have been searching for a new coach since Chris Adams (left) was sacked mid-season

'There were some discussions with KP,' Surrey chief executive Richard Gould said. 'Graham came very highly recommended from many quarters. When we spoke to him he was an impressive guy and ambitious.'

Surrey were relegated from the top flight of the County Championship this season and have been on the lookout for a new coach since Chris Adams was relieved of his duties back in June.